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Question #45118
The Question
A researcher attempts to transform three different host cells: a mammalian ovum, a leaf mesophyll cell, and an E. coli cell, using the microinjection technique to introduce a recombinant plasmid. Which of the following correctly describes the outcome of this experiment and the underlying biological principle?
Options
- A.
Successful only in the mammalian ovum; the rigid cellulose and peptidoglycan matrices of the plant and bacterial cells act as mechanical barriers, necessitating biolistics and heat-shock methods respectively.
- B.
Successful in the mammalian ovum and E. coli; the lack of a nuclear envelope in E. coli allows direct cytoplasmic injection, while the plant cell requires Agrobacterium-mediated transfer.
- C.
Successful only in the leaf mesophyll cell; the rigid cell wall provides necessary anchorage for the micropipette, whereas the animal cell membrane ruptures without structural support.
- D.
Fails in all three cells; microinjection is exclusively used for transferring whole chromosomes, whereas recombinant plasmids strictly require chemical competence or electroporation.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Microinjection Specificity|Heat Shock Thermal Gradient|Selectable Marker vs Cloning Site
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize the matching of techniques to organisms (Microinjection = Animal, Biolistics = Plant, Heat Shock = Bacteria) without understanding the anatomical 'Why'.
The trap lies in failing to recognize that the rigid cell wall (cellulose/peptidoglycan) is the specific mechanical barrier that renders microinjection physically ineffective in non-animal cells, necessitating alternative physical or chemical methods.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biotechnology : Principles and Processes - Class 12 |
| Concept | Microinjection Specificity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |